U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: Requests proposals for Great Lakes fish and wildlife restoration under the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative

Contacts:

Mark Holey, Mark_holey@fws.gov, 920-866-1760

Ashley Spratt, Ashley_spratt@fws.gov, 612-713-5314

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (Service) is inviting all interested and eligible entities to submit proposals, including those for basin-wide or large scale regional projects, for the restoration of Great Lakes fish and wildlife resources, to be funded under the Great Lakes Fish and Wildlife Restoration Act (GLFWRA). Supported in part by President Obama’s Great Lakes Restoration Initiative, a total of $8 million will be available to support projects this fiscal year. This represents the largest amount appropriated for this effort since the grants program began in 1998.

“The GLFWRA is the only federal statute dedicated solely for the restoration of fish and wildlife resources and their habitats in the Great Lakes,” said Midwest Regional Director Tom Melius. “The Service is excited to provide enhanced restoration funding in 2010, made available through the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative recently passed by Congress,” said Tom Melius, Regional Director for the Service’s Midwest Region.

The Service will accept proposals through January 22, 2010 for funding consideration under the GLFWRA. States, Federally recognized Tribal Governments, Native American Treaty Organizations, local governments, non-governmental organizations, universities, and conservation organizations within the Great Lakes basin are eligible to apply. Successful applicants are required to provide 25 percent in matching funding.

Details of the application process can be found at http://www.grants.gov or http://www.fws.gov/midwest/Fisheries/glfwra-grants.html

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit http://www.fws.gov.